Competency Management in 2026: from verification to evidence-based assurance
An expert dialogue on the future of competency assurance in maritime operations.
From verification to evidence-based assurance
[March 2026] Maritime organisations face growing pressure to prove that crews can perform safely in complex, high-risk environments. Regulators, charterers and operators now expect clear evidence of real operational competence in addition to certificates and course completions.
This live expert dialogue brought together leaders in systems & assurance, human performance, and workforce & future skills to examine how Competency Management must evolve. Listen to practical perspectives on moving beyond verification towards evidence-based assurance that reflects what people can actually do at sea.
The session explored system gaps, human factors, technology enablers and the future standards that will shape competency assurance across the maritime industry.
Missed part of the session or want to revisit key moments? Click the photo to watch the webinar recording.
Video
Key themes covered:
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Changing expectations for competency assurance - why certificates alone no longer meet regulatory and client demands
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Bridging the gap between systems and real operations - where competency frameworks fall short on board and the limits of attendance-based measures
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Evidence-based assurance in practice - what credible evidence looks like and how performance data supports competence claims
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Using technology with purpose - how simulators and digital tools strengthen assurance without becoming tick-box exercises
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Expert perspectives across the industry - insights from specialists in systems and assurance, human performance, and future workforce skills
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Rethinking how competence is defined and proven - practical takeaways for those responsible for training, safety, crewing, compliance, and operations
Thanks to our speakers:
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Capt. Naoki Saito of Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK)
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Grace Eames of Humanology
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Sam Grayling of the World Economic Forum
Moderator: Dr Joanna-Eugenia Bakouni from Maersk Training
Join the conversation
If you are responsible for training, safety, crewing, compliance or operational performance, this session will help you rethink how your organisation defines and proves competence.